Target 7 is learning more about the huge state investigation launched in Torrance County.Last week, Target 7 broke the story about the state auditor's office looking into claims of favoritism and bid-rigging for public projects.Target 7 has now learned the probe revolves around at least half a dozen projects, totaling more than $750,000 of taxpayer money. All of it was paid to one local contractor.Specifically, the state is looking into whether the contractor would secure a job through an exceptionally low bid, only to then immediately file a change order to get double or triple the money to finish the job."It could be perceived as suspicious, yes," Torrance County Manager Joy Ansley said.However Ansley staunchly denies any wrongdoing. The county manager said change orders are part of doing business in a rural community, but not everyone is convinced."No, there is no doubt in my mind at all," Torrance County Commissioner Venessa Gutierrez said. "It's not our money, it's the people's. We should take good care of it."The New Mexico Attorney General's office has also been informed about the probe. The auditor is expected to wrap up the investigation later this month.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

Target 7 is learning more about the huge state investigation launched in Torrance County.

Last week, Target 7 broke the story about the state auditor's office looking into claims of favoritism and bid-rigging for public projects.

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Target 7 has now learned the probe revolves around at least half a dozen projects, totaling more than $750,000 of taxpayer money. All of it was paid to one local contractor.

Specifically, the state is looking into whether the contractor would secure a job through an exceptionally low bid, only to then immediately file a change order to get double or triple the money to finish the job.

"It could be perceived as suspicious, yes," Torrance County Manager Joy Ansley said.

However Ansley staunchly denies any wrongdoing. The county manager said change orders are part of doing business in a rural community, but not everyone is convinced.

"No, there is no doubt in my mind at all," Torrance County Commissioner Venessa Gutierrez said. "It's not our money, it's the people's. We should take good care of it."

The New Mexico Attorney General's office has also been informed about the probe. The auditor is expected to wrap up the investigation later this month.